Apr
8
Googling Around the Web
April 8, 2007 | | Leave a Comment
Google is so much more than just a search tool. It includes a whole family of Web 2.0 tools, including:
Google Maps: Search the world via map or satellite imagery thanks to Google Maps. You can type in an address and find directions, distances, and length of time to travel. You can even type in landmarks, like the CN Tower, and you are instantly transported there via Google Maps.
Google Scholar: With most searching on the Internet, you are skimming the surface of a very big ocean of information. Using Google scholar gives your search a little more depth as you specifically search scholarly literature. You can increase the effectiveness of your Google Scholar searches by using the Advanced search option, and fine-tuning your search.
Google Earth: Google Earth combines the power of Google Search with satellite imagery, maps, terrain and 3D buildings – it is a great geography tool to explore the world. It does require a download, but once installed, it allows the following (listed on Googe Earth website):
Fly to your house. Just type in an address, press Search, and you’ll zoom right in. Search for schools, parks, restaurants, and hotels. Get driving directions. Tilt and rotate the view to see 3D terrain and buildings. Save and share your searches and favorites.
Google Labs: This is a very interesting part of the Google website… it provides links to the technology aspect of Google. There are many technology tools to explore here, including Google Page Creator, which is a great tool for creating webpages. The only glitch is you need to have a Gmail (the Google email program) account to access this tool.
Picassa: This tool is similar to Flickr, in that you can upload and share photos. One fabulous difference is that Picassa allows you to modify your photos (make colour adjustments, size adjustments etc. ) It is like having Flickr and Photoshop rolled into one program. A great Web 2.0 tool.
Blogger: One of the easiest blogging programs to use is now owned by Google. It walks you through step-by-step as you set-up your blog. Before you start, give some thought as to what name you’d like for your blog… Blogger has been around for a while, and most obvious names are gone.
All students know how to use Google to do a random search for information, but as educators we could be teaching them to be more effective in their research. Google offers tips on how to search:
I love Google, although I admit to feeling like they are a monster corporation that will take over the world someday. Their tools are useful, and they allow you to participate in Web 2.0 easily.
